Vancouver Island

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Vancouver Island's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Adventure Awaits in Victoria
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Butchart Gardens. Enjoy the vibrant flowers and scenic pathways for a refreshing morning stroll.

afternoon
:

Head to downtown Victoria for lunch at a local café. Afterward, explore the Royal BC Museum to learn about the province's history.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant with stunning views of the harbor. Cap off your night with a casual walk along the Inner Harbour.

day 2
Surf's Up in Tofino
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local bakery before heading to Long Beach for some surfing. Enjoy the stunning coastal views as you ride the waves.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch from a food truck and explore Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Take a tranquil walk along the rainforest trails.

evening
:

Relax at a beach bonfire with s'mores as the sun sets over the ocean. Later, try out a cozy restaurant for some fresh seafood.

day 3
Nature's Paradise in Port Renfrew
morning
:

After breakfast, embark on a breathtaking hike at Juan de Fuca Provincial Park. Enjoy the stunning coastal views and the sound of crashing waves.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local pub and then visit the famous Botanical Beach. Here, explore tide pools and unique coastal ecosystems.

evening
:

Savor a meal at a beachfront spot while watching the sunset. Spend your evening stargazing along the quiet beaches.

day 4
Scenic Views in Cowichan Valley
morning
:

Kick off the day with a delicious breakfast at a local diner. Then take a scenic drive through the Cowichan Valley and see the beautiful vineyards.

afternoon
:

Stop for a wine tasting at one of the local wineries. Enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch surrounded by stunning landscapes.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a vineyard restaurant, sampling the local cuisine. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as day turns into night.

day 5
Mountain Magic in Comox Valley
morning
:

After breakfast, head to Mount Washington for a day of hiking or mountain biking. Experience breathtaking views and invigorating trails.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch at a cozy café in Courtenay. Spend the afternoon exploring the local art galleries and shops.

evening
:

Dine at a bistro known for its farm-to-table menu. Enjoy an evening stroll along the Courtenay Riverwalk.

day 6
Relaxation in Salt Spring Island
morning
:

Catch the ferry to Salt Spring Island and have breakfast at a local café. Explore the charming town of Ganges and its artisan shops.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant renowned for its local produce. Visit Salt Spring Island Vineyards for a delightful wine tasting.

evening
:

Dine at a clifftop restaurant overlooking the ocean as the sun sets. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere before returning to your accommodation.

day 7
Cycling through Nanaimo
morning
:

Start with breakfast at a popular café, then rent a bike for an adventure on the Harbourfront Walkway. Enjoy stunning views of the ferries and ocean.

afternoon
:

After a morning of cycling, refuel with lunch at a waterfront pub. Spend the afternoon exploring Newcastle Island Park, accessible by ferry.

evening
:

End the day with a dinner at a restaurant in downtown Nanaimo. Take a nighttime stroll along the waterfront to admire the city lights.

day 8
Fall Foliage in Ucluelet
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local eatery and head for a hike along the Wild Pacific Trail. The breathtaking coastal views and autumn colors are mesmerizing.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a quaint restaurant in Ucluelet. Spend the afternoon visiting the Ucluelet Aquarium, a great spot for families.

evening
:

Have dinner at a seafood restaurant with a view of the harbor. Relax with a scenic evening walk on the beach.

day 9
Wine Tasting in Duncan
morning
:

After a hearty breakfast, visit local farms and markets in the Duncan area. Taste fresh produce while enjoying the countryside charm.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a café, then check out the renowned Cowichan Valley wine region. Indulge in tastings and scenic vineyard tours.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant serving delicious regional dishes. Spend the evening relaxing and reminiscing about your day over a glass of wine.

Discover Vancouver Island

Read more in our Vancouver Island 2024 Travel Guide.

Vancouver Island Travel Guide